Rob Smith: More AFC Telford pain on the way
Grim-faced Rob Smith has warned AFC Telford United fans to expect "more pain" – as Dave Hibbert was ruled out for up to three weeks.
The Bucks remain bottom of National League North with four points from nine games after Saturday's 4-0 home loss to Harrogate.
Boss Smith admits he faces his toughest job in football turning the club's fortunes around.
But after being thwarted at every turn since the weekend in his attempts to improve the squad, Smith believes it may get worse before it gets better.
"We will turn things around, but I think we might have to suffer some more pain first," said the Bucks chief.
"Results and performances might not improve in the short term until we get the right players in.
"We've had a chance to look at what we've got and it's clear to see a lot of work needs to be done.
"We've got the FA Cup coming up and clubs don't want to let players out because they could get cup-tied."
Smith revealed why this is the hardest challenge he has ever taken on.
"With so many players on contract and looking at the strength of the league, yes, it's my toughest job," he said.
"But if we come out of it by staying up, then we can build for next season."
Hibbert tweaked medial ligaments in his knee in Saturday's game and looks like being out for two to three weeks.
Jack Deaman is suspended for Saturday's visit of North Ferriby, after which Lucas Dawson starts a three-match ban for his red card at the weekend.
Smith reassured fans he is convinced he will arrest the slide and that everything is being done to sign players.
"There's an unbelievable amount of work going on behind the scenes," he said.
"It started again at 6pm on Saturday after the game and it's been non-stop."
